Parents & Students Have Mixed Reactions About Huff's Retirement

JOPLIN, MISSOURI -
For many the news of Huff's retirement came by surprise.

“I'm just kind of in shock. I didn't realize that you know. I know he's been under a lot of criticism this year but was kind of a shock that you just told me that,” says Parent George Nunnery.

Surprise for parents and students alike,

“I was kind of shocked because I hadn't heard anything about it till now and I actually know his son, he goes to my school, and I had no idea,” says North Middle School Student Katelyn Hunter.

Although there's been controversy surrounding the name C.J. Huff lately, some of the parents and residents I spoke with say he's a good man that's done a lot for Joplin

"Of all the superintendents I've known down through the years, I like him real well,” says great-grandparent Lela Dabbs.

Huff's served as superintendent for close to seven years and will continue to finish out his term till the end of June. For some residents they say the move came just in the nick of time.

“I'm 100% behind him and he, he deserves everything. I mean the man's been great, he's done everything he could and I think he made the right move before anything else had happened,” says Jason Walker.

"He's kinda done a great deal for Joplin. But then there's the controversies that he's had this year that, you know, who knows if it was the right decision or time or him to go, maybe he just need to step down,” says Nunnery.

And for one parent, she looks forward to changes new leadership may bring in the future for her kids

"I do have kids that are going to be going to school in Joplin and they are two and three years old right now, but I think that it's going to be a great change for Joplin schools. I think it's going to be very positive and they're going to do very, very well,” says parent Andrea Richardson.

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